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Optoelectronic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Optoelectronic Engineer information

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$59.5K

$90.5K

$153.5K

How much do optoelectronic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for optoelectronic engineer in the United States is $90,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optoelectronic Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as an Optoelectronic Engineer, a strong background in physics, optics, electronics, and a relevant engineering degree (such as electrical or optical engineering) is essential. Familiarity with simulation software (like Zemax or COMSOL), photonics design tools, and relevant industry certifications can greatly enhance technical proficiency. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative optoelectronic systems and ensuring their reliable integration into advanced technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by optoelectronic engineers in product development projects?

Optoelectronic engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating optical and electronic components within tight space and performance constraints. Achieving precise alignment, minimizing signal loss, and managing thermal effects are frequent technical hurdles. Additionally, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists—is essential to ensure successful prototyping and product scalability. Staying current with rapid advancements in photonics technology can also be demanding but is vital for innovation and career growth.

What are optoelectronic engineers?

Optoelectronic engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test devices and systems that use both light (optical) and electronics technologies. Their work often involves components like lasers, LEDs, photodetectors, and fiber optics, which are used in applications ranging from telecommunications to medical devices. These engineers combine knowledge of physics, optics, and electrical engineering to create and improve products such as high-speed internet systems, imaging devices, and advanced sensors. They may work in research, product development, manufacturing, or quality assurance roles across various industries.

What is the difference between Optoelectronic Engineer vs Electronics Engineer?

AspectOptoelectronic EngineerElectronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related; specialization in optoelectronicsBachelor's or higher in Electrical or Electronics Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, telecommunications, optoelectronic device developmentConsumer electronics, embedded systems, circuit design, general electronics
Industry UsageOptoelectronic components, fiber optics, laser systemsConsumer electronics, industrial automation, communication devices

Optoelectronic Engineers focus on designing and developing devices that involve light and electronics, such as lasers and fiber optics. Electronics Engineers have a broader scope, working on various electronic systems and circuits. While both roles require a strong foundation in electrical engineering, optoelectronic engineers specialize in light-based technologies, making their work more specific to optoelectronic applications.

More about Optoelectronic Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Optoelectronic Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Optoelectronic Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optoelectronic Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Optoelectronic Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Optoelectronic Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Optoelectronic Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optoelectronic Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optoelectronic Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Optoelectronic Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,511 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
Lead OptoElectronics Engineer

$140K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Do you want to be part of a business that genuinely valuesentrepreneurialism,innovationandindividual accountability? Wefocus on our customersand are proud of the difference our technology makes. We partner with some of the biggest manufacturing companies in the world and our technical innovations are used to enhance well-known brands across multiple industries.

TitleLead OptoElectronics Engineer

Department Engineering - Development

Location Niwot/Hybrid

Reports To Research Director

Your Impact
We are looking for a Lead OptoElectronics Engineer who will contribute to the Engineering Research & Development team, ensuring alignment with company goals and delivery of innovative, reliable photonic detection solutions. This role is responsible for setting technical direction and providing expert guidance. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, decisionmaking, and communication skills; build collaborative relationships across functions; and maintain a commitment to professional excellence, quality, and continuous improvement.

The Role
The Lead OptoElectronics Engineer is a senior technical leadership role focused on very lowlevel light detection, optical imaging, and advanced photonic instrumentation. They will lead the development of highsensitivity detection systems with emphasis on maximizing signaltonoise ratio through detector selection, amplifier architecture, lownoise circuit design, and precision PCB layout. They will serve as a subject matter expert in photonic detectors and interfacing circuitry for scientific instrumentation.

Job Responsibilities

  • Design and develop ultralownoise, high signaltonoise analog frontend electronics for optical detection systems

  • Define requirements and specifications for photonic detectors (photodiodes, APDs, SPADs, SiPMs, and arrays) in collaboration with vendors

  • Lead development and evaluation of optical imaging and light collection systems for weaksignal environments

  • Analyze detector physics, noise sources, and systemlevel performance limitations

  • Research and evaluate emerging photonics and detector technologies to guide R&D direction

  • Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and knowledge transfer to engineering and research staff

  • Collaborate with crossfunctional teams to support advanced instrumentation development programs

  • Continuously evaluate processes for improvements in efficiency, quality, and performance

  • This role is not allinclusive; responsibilities may evolve to meet organizational needs

Required Qualifications

  • MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, or related field

  • Significant experience in:

    • Very low level light detection systems

    • Low noise amplifier design and circuit architecture

    • Precision PCB layout for sensitive analog systems

    • Optical detection and imaging systems

  • Fifteen (15) years of relevant experience

  • Deep understanding of photonic detector devices and associated electronics

  • Strong analytical, experimental, and problemsolving skills

  • Ability to independently evaluate and guide advanced photonics technology directions

  • Strong communication, collaboration, and mentoring capability

Preferred Qualifications

  • PhD in a relevant technical discipline

  • Experience with photon counting and TCSPC (timecorrelated single photon counting)

  • Broad knowledge of modern photonics and optical sensing technologies

  • Demonstrated success in maturing complex technologies into commercially viable products

  • Experience working in multidisciplinary industrial research environments

  • Strong innovation track record (publications, patents, or advanced R&D contributions)

  • Proven leadership and project execution experience

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

  • This is an "in-office" position 80-100% of the time. The remainder of the time you may work from home. These percentages are targets with the actual schedule to be determined in conjunction with the Manager's expectations for the position.

  • This role primarily operates in an office/lab/manufacturing environment. Must be able to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods of time

  • Occasional lifting of up to 20 lbs. independently may be required

  • This role involves occasional working in laboratory environments that include exposure to X-rays, radiation, and biological materials. All work is performed following established safety protocols and regulatory guidelines

  • Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive base salary range: $140,000 - 175,000 depending on experience

    • Our compensation philosophy: we offer competitive pay based on market data, including local, national, and industry benchmarks. For new hires, offers are generally within the established min- to mid-point of the range for the role, with flexibility to recognize experience, skills, and education. Our approach ensures fair pay internally while remaining competitive externally and allows room for growth.

  • Comprehensive benefits package:

    • Health coverage: medical, dental, vision, fsa, onsite clinic (CO employees), life insurance

    • 401(k) retirement plan with company match

    • Vacation, holiday, and leave policies

    • Tuition reimbursement, Employee recognition programs, Employee assistance programs

Particle Measuring Systems is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to building an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive.